If you have rheumatoid arthritis in Louisiana, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, plus state programs for food, health, and work support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what help is available in 2025.
To get federal disability benefits for rheumatoid arthritis, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) rules. You need a severe medical condition that stops you from working and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. The SSA looks at your age, education, past work, and how your condition affects your ability to do any job. If you are still working, your earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, SGA is $1,620 per month for non-blind people and $2,700 for blind people. If your earnings are above SGA, your claim may be denied at first. You also need enough work credits for SSDI, usually 40 credits with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability starts[6].
Louisiana does not have a separate state disability program for adults, but people with rheumatoid arthritis may qualify for state-funded emergency food aid if they are in a SNAP household with children, elderly, or disabled members. This aid started in November 2025 due to a federal shutdown. Households with only able-bodied adults do not get this help. You may also qualify for Medicaid, Medicaid waivers, and other state services if you meet income and disability rules. The Governor’s Office of Disability Affairs can help with information and referrals[7].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses. Louisiana has its own ABLE program. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one[8].
In 2025, the SGA limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month for non-blind people and $2,700 for blind people. The maximum SSI payment is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. Income limits for Medicaid and SNAP depend on your household size and income[5][9].
Always report changes in your health, income, or living situation to SSA and state agencies. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Learn how to avoid overpayments and what to do if you get too much[8].
If you are in a SNAP household with children, elderly, or disabled members, you may get state-funded emergency food aid in Louisiana as of November 2025[1].
Disability Rights Louisiana offers free counseling to help you understand how work affects your benefits[2].
Yes, if your rheumatoid arthritis is severe and stops you from working for at least a year, you may qualify for federal SSI or SSDI. You may also get state help like Medicaid or SNAP if you meet income rules[6][8].
In 2025, you can earn up to $1,620 per month and still get SSDI if you are not blind. If you are blind, the limit is $2,700. Earning more than this may stop your benefits[5][4].
The Trial Work Period lets you test your ability to work for up to nine months. During this time, you get full SSDI benefits no matter how much you earn, as long as you report your work and still have a disability[4].
Louisiana does not have a separate state disability program for adults. But you may get state-funded emergency food aid if you are in a SNAP household with children, elderly, or disabled members. You may also qualify for Medicaid and other state services[1][7].
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local SSA office. You will need medical records and work history. Disability Rights Louisiana can help with counseling[6][2].
In 2025, the maximum SSI payment is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. This amount is the same in all states[9].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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Yes, you can work and still get disability benefits if your earnings are below the SGA limit. The SSA has work incentives to help you try working without losing benefits right away[4][3].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid. Louisiana has its own ABLE program. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses[8].
Always report changes in your health, income, or living situation to SSA and state agencies. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties[8].
Disability Rights Louisiana offers free work incentives counseling and benefits help. You can call their WIPA program at 1-866-968-7842 for support[2].
